Smart Cities and quality of life in Budapest: Implications for city management
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15170/MM.2025.59.04.04Kulcsszavak:
Smart Cities, Quality of life, Residents, Hungary, Budapest, City managementAbsztrakt
AIMS OF THE PAPER
The aim of this study is to examine the association between smart city development and residents’ quality
of life in Budapest. This includes evaluating urban consumers’ perceptions and attitudes towards existing
smart solutions in the city across various aspects of their life.
METHODOLOGY
The research employed a trilingual questionnaire (English, Hungarian and Mandarin Chinese) to accommodate
Budapest’s diverse population of resident consumers. The data collection yielded 453 valid responses.
Distribution occurred through both electronic platforms (web-based interfaces, QR codes, District
Forums, expatriate networks) and paper-based instruments, which were completed by interviewers in various
districts of the city.
MOST IMPORTANT RESULTS
Respondents generally have a positive image of Budapest, and they find the city relatively safe. Budapest’s
urban environment is rated quite positively, especially the city’s atmosphere. Consumers find public transport
efficient, easy to use and easy to navigate. Smart transportation-related services (mobile apps, ticketing,
electronic information boards) were rated highly. However, respondents are not so happy with the
parking situation and overall traffic management. They are least happy with the quality and cost of housing,
followed by healthcare and low salaries compared to the cost of living. Also, they do not see Budapest as
a very clean or sustainable city.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is important to build on the city’s strengths (e.g., efficient transport system, cultural attractions, good
atmosphere) and to address apparent weaknesses (e.g., cleanliness, lack of parking). The city should be
made safer for certain groups of residents (e.g., women) and the number of local green spaces should be
increased for older residents who might find it harder to access central locations. Sustainability needs to
be communicated more prominently, and residents, especially those less confident (e.g., older residents),
should be encouraged to use smart tools.
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